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Surface-to-air missiles for Olympics
14/11/2011
British Forces News
Surface-to-air missiles could be used to protect the skies over London during the Olympics, Defence Secretary Philip Hammond said today as he insisted "all necessary measures" will be taken to ensure security.
Mr Hammond told the Commons "appropriate ground to air defences" could be in place if that was recommended by the military.
His comments came as it was reported that forces personnel could have to provide far more Olympic security than expected.
It has been widely reported that Games organisers have massively underestimated the number of security guards required, and thousands of troops may have to fill the gap.
The MOD says no formal request has been received, but talks are underway.
The Home Office, which is responsible for Olympic security, says no decisions have been made.
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